News

2026 bushfires update

In the North East region, the Walwa – River Road fire started on 5 January and burnt from the Murray River down to the Wabba Wilderness and was classified as contained on 6 February 2026.  

As at 12 February 2026 approximately 121,500 hectares (Ha) has been burnt. The burnt area is 78% public land, that includes 13,500 Ha of pine plantations.  22 % of the fire impacted private land with at least 14 residences burnt, numerous agricultural buildings and stock losses.  

As well as sites of cultural heritage, many areas of high value biodiversity habitat, significant community assets were impacted including Shelley Camp, Avondale Gardens, the Upper Murray Landcare Office and the Upper Murray Rail Trail and heritage trestle bridges.

North East CMA Works to Protect Platypus Habitat

The North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is improving the health of Wodonga’s urban waterways by removing invasive Black Willow trees along the Kiewa River and House Creek.

North East CMA Leads Effort in Wangaratta to Restore Urban Waterways for Platypus

The North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has commenced important works to remove invasive Black Willow (Salix nigra) and other woody weeds along the Ovens River and Three Mile Creek in Wangaratta. This initiative forms part of the Platy Patch Project, which aims to rejuvenate urban waterways and create healthier habitats for the iconic Platypus.

Former Cross Border Commissioner Appointed Chair of the North East CMA Board

Former Cross Border Commissioner Appointed Chair of the North East CMA Board

The North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has welcomed four new board members with the recently announced round of appointments to the boards of Water Corporations and CMAs. 

Introducing the Sustainable Landscapes Program

To coordinate the delivery of this project and others like it, the North East CMA has recently formed a new Sustainable Landscapes Program and team of staff specifically to support sustainable, productive and adaptive land management in our region. The team have extensive knowledge and practical application of sustainable agriculture, strategic planning, waterway management, community engagement and revegetation projects that provide a unique opportunity to support groups and individuals with extension expertise and technical support.